While Waminda House remains closed due to structural issues with its Ballintine St, Benalla, home, volunteers have been busy making some artworks to make their new location feel like home.
At the time of writing, that home has not been locked in yet. However, manager Leeane Bullard said a temporary, and more permanent, solution was close.
Waminda volunteers and community members who come along to its weekly link-up event at Benalla’s CWA hall recently undertook an art project to help decorate the new premises.
“Part of our link-up program is to have art from 11am to 1pm every Wednesday (during school term time),” Ms Bullard said.
“Over that time, we've had different facilitators in and different themes.
“And these last two weeks, we’re working on some artwork for our new, temporary home.”
Ms Bullard said the art group has gone from strength to strength.
“There’s certainly a core group of us, and I think we had 10 people last time,” she said.
“Many people, like Sandra Rogash and myself, have never really done art before.
“For probably half the group, that's true, and it's developed into a really lovely passion or hobby for lots of us.”
Ms Bullard said the art program has helped participants make friends and meet new people.
“Which is wonderful,” she said.
“It’s just a really welcoming group. You can come casually. Some people are coming every week. It’s been the success of this link-up program so far.”
The Flexible Learning Centre has its coffee van on site during link-up, so attendees can grab a barista-made coffee and cake.
People can pop along for a chat or can take part in one of the many programs on offer.
Ms Bullard said anyone in the community is welcome to come along.
“We’re at the CWA hall on Bridge St East, every Wednesday during school term time,” she said.
“The program is funded by the Freemasons Society, so it’s free to come along.
“It’s such a lovely group for social inclusion, and everyone’s welcome.”
To find out more, simply pop along to Benalla’s CWA hall any Wednesday during school term time from 10am.